U.S. senators, Richard Blumenthal (D) and Marsha Blackburn (R) have launched an investigation into the recent recruitment by the short video-sharing platform TikTok of high-ranking executives from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance. The move comes amid growing concerns over TikTok’s autonomy and the security of U.S. user data, reported Reuters.
In a joint letter addressed to TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew, Senators Blumenthal and Blackburn expressed reservations about the implications of ByteDance executives joining TikTok’s ranks. They suggested that these appointments raised doubts about the platform’s independence and its ability to safeguard the sensitive information of American users.
Related: TikTok Updates Data Usage Regulations To Fit EU Laws
“The personnel changes give the impression that TikTok is attempting to preserve ByteDance’s influence over TikTok while avoiding suspicion,” the senators wrote in their letter. They requested a comprehensive account of the security measures being enforced on ByteDance employees relocating from China to the United States.
TikTok, in response to the senators’ inquiry, stated that it welcomed the opportunity to provide factual information regarding its hiring practices. A spokesperson for the platform emphasized that in a large, global organization, it is not uncommon for employees to work on different products or in various geographical locations during their careers.
TikTok’s user base in the United States exceeds 150 million individuals, making it a significant platform for content sharing. However, it has been under the scrutiny of U.S. lawmakers who have raised concerns about the potential influence of the Chinese government on the app.
Source: Reuters
Featured News
Subscribers Defend $4.7 Billion Antitrust Verdict Against NFL in Court Filings
Jul 19, 2024 by
CPI
Von der Leyen Calls for Competition Policy to Boost EU Companies’ Growth
Jul 19, 2024 by
CPI
Vermont AG Sues Pharmacy Benefit Managers Over Drug Prices
Jul 18, 2024 by
CPI
Australians Face Increased Stamp Prices Following ACCC Approval
Jul 18, 2024 by
CPI
Live Nation Seeks Dismissal of DOJ Antitrust Allegations
Jul 18, 2024 by
CPI
Antitrust Mix by CPI
Antitrust Chronicle® – Private Equity Roll-Up Schemes
Jun 28, 2024 by
CPI
The FTC’s Focus on Private Equity is Warranted
Jun 28, 2024 by
CPI
Unraveling the Roll-Up: Private Equity’s Misunderstood Investment Strategy
Jun 28, 2024 by
CPI
Antitrust Focus on Private Equity Funds and Serial Acquisitions
Jun 28, 2024 by
CPI
Private Equity Roll-Ups Amidst Heightened Antitrust Enforcement
Jun 28, 2024 by
CPI